New Delhi: Pacer has reacted to fellow veteran fast bowler ‘s return to the Indian team, saying that his selection doesn’t concern him.
Bhuvneshwar has earned a recall to the national side after almost four years, following brilliant performances for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL.
Shami last played for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in March 2025. After the tournament, Shami wasn’t considered for selection in any format, with former chief selector Ajit Agarkar repeatedly citing the pacer’s fitness.
The 36-year-old has been playing regular domestic cricket matches since then and has performed well for Bengal. Bhuvneshwar’s comeback to the national team has led to calls for Shami’s return.
“Bhuvneshwar Kumar got the chance to play for India, and that’s good for him. But his selection doesn’t concern me. Wherever I get the chance to play, I will give my best. Right now, my focus is firmly on this Ranji match,” Shami told RevSportz.
Shami breaks silence on India snub
The veteran pacer also pointed out that he has been delivering good performances for Bengal and also proving his fitness over the last two to three years. Shami believes that he has continued to do his job on the field, and missing out on another India opportunity would not be his loss.
“The same thing has been happening with me for the last two or three years. I have been performing and have proved my fitness for Bengal. If I don’t get the chance to play for India again, it’s not my loss,” he added.
Team India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak also talked about Shami ahead of the second T20I against West Indies and said that he’s doing well in domestic cricket, but the selection is not in his hands.
“First of all, I am not a selector, so it is difficult for me to tell you that. But Shami is also playing and he is also doing well. If the selectors feel that he is doing well and the team has a requirement, then any player can be selected,” Kotak added.
Shami will be in action in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy opener against Delhi on October 11.